How theories of practice can inform transition to a decarbonised transport system

Matt Watson

Journal of Transport Geography, 2012, vol. 24, issue C, 488-496

Abstract: In this article, I explore the potential of theories of practice to inform the socio-technical transition required to adequately decarbonise the UK transport system. To do so I push existing applications of practice theories by outlining a ‘systems of practice’ approach, which articulates theories of practice with socio-technical systems approaches. After sketching out a theory of practice, I explore the potential of a practice theory approach to illuminate systemic change in transport. I do this by confronting two key criticisms of practice theories; first of their apparent difficulty in accounting for change; second of their limited demonstrated ability to move beyond a micro-level focus on doing. The counter I offer to these criticisms leads directly into recognising how theories of practice can articulate with socio-technical systems approaches. From this basis, I go on to consider the implications of a practice theory approach for informing interventions to effect a system transition towards decarbonised transport.

Keywords: Practices; Socio-technical systems; Transition; Transport; Cycling; Driving (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2012
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (69)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:jotrge:v:24:y:2012:i:c:p:488-496

DOI: 10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2012.04.002

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